LAKE WYNONAH - Despite the water being a chilly 41 degrees - and the outside temperature 30 - about 100 people took a plunge Sunday into Lake Wynonah for the third annual Leap in the Lake to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The event started at noon at the lake marina and included food, a photo booth and entertainment by a disc jockey.
Registration was $15 and all participants received a long-sleeve event T-shirt.
David Tyson, chairman of the Lake Wynonah Athletic Group, said this year the water and air temperature were colder than last year.
"We're on target with the same amount of participants but greater donations and business sponsorships as well," Tyson said.
During the leap, participants gathered in groups of eight to 10 leapers and were sent into the water.
Wave after wave entered and exited the lake while the Schuylkill Haven Water Rescue and EMS squads were on hand to ensure everyone's safety.
Two people participating for the first time this year were Alexis Petrie, Schuylkill Haven, and Thaddeus Schantzenbach, Lake Wynonah. Schantzenbach said that their youth group from St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Auburn, was looking for something to do, which is why he and Petrie were taking the leap.
"I'm going to freeze," Petrie said.
The first person into the water Sunday was Elizabeth Kattner, Schuylkill Haven, who said she planned to be in and out and was crossing this off her bucket list.
"I was in a bad accident last year, which should have killed me," she said. "I'm glad I can do it."
Others who took a leap this year included Jeff and Dana Seisler, Lake Wynonah.
After the event, Jeff Seisler said he thought the water was "shocking" while his wife said it was "invigorating."
"We do it every year," he said. "It goes for a good cause."